AU‑EU Youth Action Lab Entrepreneurship Grants

The AU‑EU Youth Action Lab Entrepreneurship Grants provide financial support of up to €30,000 to youth‑led social enterprises that are driving innovation, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable solutions in Africa. This initiative, jointly supported by the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU), empowers young innovators to implement impactful projects addressing local and continental challenges.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be youth‑led organisations or social enterprises (18–35 years in leadership roles).
• Organisations must be registered or operating in one of the 12 eligible African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia (Somaliland), Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
• Projects should address social, environmental, or economic challenges, and demonstrate potential for scaling impact.
• Individual youth innovators can apply if they are leading a team or organisation.

Focus Areas / Sectors:

• Technology and digital innovation
• Agribusiness and food security
• Climate change and environmental solutions
• Health and wellbeing
• Education and skills development
• Social enterprise and community empowerment

Benefits for Grantees:

• Funding support of up to €30,000 (non-repayable) to implement projects
• Mentorship and capacity-building support tailored to project needs
• Access to AU‑EU youth networks, partners, and continental platforms
• Opportunity to scale your solution beyond national borders
• Visibility and recognition through AU‑EU supported initiatives

Duration: Projects are designed to be implemented over 12 months.

Application Period: Registration opened in mid‑November 2025 and the deadline is 7 January 2026.

This grant is ideal for young innovators who want to turn ideas into actionable projects that create meaningful social, environmental, and economic impact across Africa.